Knicks Outlast Hawks in Game 1 Thriller

Brunson and Towns lead New York to series-opening victory at Madison Square Garden

Apr. 19, 2026 at 2:10pm

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A dynamic, cubist-inspired painting depicting the intense action and competition of the Knicks-Hawks playoff game, with sharp geometric shapes and vibrant colors capturing the energy of the moment.The Knicks' star power and depth proved too much for the Hawks in a hard-fought Game 1 battle at Madison Square Garden.Atlanta Today

The New York Knicks defeated the Atlanta Hawks 108-102 in Game 1 of their first-round NBA playoff series. Jalen Brunson scored 19 of his 29 points in the first quarter to lead the Knicks, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 25 points, including 19 in the second half, to help New York hold off a late Hawks comeback attempt.

Why it matters

This series opener sets the tone for what is expected to be a closely contested matchup between two of the Eastern Conference's top teams. The Knicks' ability to withstand Atlanta's second-half surge and protect home court advantage could prove crucial as the series progresses.

The details

Brunson's hot start put the Hawks in an early hole, but CJ McCollum's 26 points kept Atlanta within striking distance. The Hawks also got solid contributions from Jalen Johnson (23 points, 7 rebounds) and Onyeka Okongwu (19 points). However, the Knicks' frontcourt duo of Brunson and Towns proved too much, as New York's bench outscored Atlanta's 13-0.

  • The game was played on April 19, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

The players

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' starting point guard, who scored a game-high 29 points and set the tone early with 19 first-quarter points.

Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks' star center, who scored 25 points, including 19 in the second half, to help New York hold off the Hawks' late comeback attempt.

CJ McCollum

The Hawks' leading scorer with 26 points, keeping Atlanta within striking distance throughout the game.

Jalen Johnson

The Hawks' second-year forward, who contributed 23 points and 7 rebounds in the losing effort.

Onyeka Okongwu

The Hawks' starting center, who scored 19 points on efficient 9 shots, including 4-of-6 from three-point range.

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What they’re saying

“Jalen was incredible in that first quarter. He set the tone for us and really got us going offensively.”

— Tom Thibodeau, Knicks Head Coach

“We had our chances, but we just couldn't get over the hump. We'll regroup and come out stronger in Game 2.”

— Quin Snyder, Hawks Head Coach

What’s next

The series shifts to Atlanta for Game 2 on April 22, 2026, where the Hawks will look to even the series before it heads back to New York.

The takeaway

This game highlighted the star power and depth of the Knicks, who were able to withstand a late Hawks comeback attempt. However, Atlanta showed it can compete with New York, setting up what should be a closely contested series between these two Eastern Conference contenders.